Weather in January
Existing in the dead of winter,
January brings the chilliest sea temperatures to
Harpswell,
Maine, with the surface water dipping to an average of 41.3°F (5.2°C). The frosty weather rings in the new year, setting the scene for generally overcast skies and glimmering frost-covered landscapes. Compared to
December, the span of daylight grows slightly but remains under the 10-hour mark, influencing the overall frigid temperatures. This month introduces the coldest part of the year, a trend that persists going into
February. The constant cold temperatures can lend themselves to the formation of sea ice, inspiring a unique, wintery vista along the coast.
Ocean temperature
In January, the average ocean temperature is 41.4°F (5.2°C).
Note: Swimming in 41.4°F (5.2°C) is considered life-threatening. Even a few minutes in 55.4°F (13°C) water is uncomfortable, and swimming below 50°F (10°C) may cause total loss of breathing control and cold shock, depending on a person's physique.
Daylight
The average length of the day in January is 9h and 22min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 7:13 am and sunset at 4:12 pm. On the last day of January, sunrise is at 6:57 am and sunset at 4:48 pm EST.